March 10, 2023:
The Department of Tourism (DOT), Government of Goa, recently participated in the Internationale Tourismus Börse (ITB) Berlin 2023, the world’s largest travel trade show held in Berlin, Germany, from 7th to 9th March. The Department had a clear objective at the trade fair to showcase the diversity of tourism options beyond the beaches and promote the state’s unique culture, heritage, and natural beauty.The Goa Pavilion at ITB Berlin 2023 received a notable visit and was inaugurated by Shri Arvind Singh, Secretary of Tourism, Government of India, and the Ambassador of India to Germany, His Excellency Shri Harish Parvathaneni. Under the theme of ‘Mastering Transformation,’ the Goa Pavilion showcased its exuberant culture and promoted its responsible tourism ethos to the global travel industry. The pavilion served as an excellent platform for promoting Goa’s tourism offerings.

At ITB Berlin 2023, representatives from Goa Tourism engaged in a series of productive B2B meetings with travel agents and tour operators from Germany. The delegation also spoke with members of the press to promote Goa’s wide range of tourism offerings and upcoming events. Among the topics discussed was the recent addition of the new airport at Mopa, which is expected to enhance connectivity to the region. Additionally, the delegation highlighted the importance of the upcoming G20 meetings and the Exposition of the sacred relics of St Francis Xavier. Throughout the event, the travel trade showed particular interest in visa facilities, safety, accessibility, and new tourism offerings. In response, the delegation made a strong effort to promote Goa beyond its beaches, focusing on hinterland and eco tourism, waterfalls, etc.

Goa Tourism put a significant effort into showcasing its diverse offerings beyond the beaches, including hinterland and eco-tourism, waterfalls, bird watching, monsoons, culture, and cuisine. The ITB Berlin 2023 was an excellent opportunity for Goa Tourism to strengthen existing relationships and establish new ones within the travel industry.